Getting emergency support

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger for any reason, or you suspect you/they are likely to be, phone 999 immediately and explain the situation.

If you are phoning from Ireland, or somewhere else in the European Union, phone 112 immediately.

Textphone users in the UK should dial 18000 in an emergency.

Mental Health Emergencies

If your mental or emotional wellbeing quickly gets worse, or you’re in crisis or despair – or you’re worried someone you know is – help is available. Please seek help, including support from the emergency services, if you think you need it.

If you need someone to talk to, there are several organisations on hand 24 hours a day throughout the year to offer their help:

Lifeline

Lifeline are available 24/7 to talk about trauma, suicide, self-harm, abuse, depression and anxiety.

Freephone: 0800 0808 8000

Samaritans

The Samaritans offer 24-hour telephone support:

Phone: 08457 90 90 90

Textphone: 08457 90 91 92

Childline

If you’re under 18, Childline can help with any issues you have. You can also chat to them online by clicking here.Freephone: 0800 1111

If you need mental health support on an ongoing basis, you can get help from your GP or from your local general mental health care team.

Hate Crime, Domestic & Sexual Violence

If you are subject to domestic or sexual violence, or otherwise suffer abuse, you can get help from the Police and other organisations. If you feel confident enough, you can report any crimes against you to the Police, using the emergency services if necessary.

You can also get help and support from your local social security office in the form of social housing and Housing Benefit to help you get access to safe housing. Read the links below for official advice on getting access to social housing and benefits:

Benefits & Financial Support

If you are made homeless, are cut off from your financial resources or are otherwise experiencing hardship, you can apply for financial support in the form of benefits and grants. These vary widely from area to area and from person to person.